Following some political concerns due to rumors that the new administration would enforce severe restrictions on domestic travel such as mandatory PCR COVID-19 tests or even flight bans on some states, a White House spokesperson had to deny all these fake reports.
On Thursday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that although the administration is “always considering what steps are necessary” to protect Americans “no decisions have been made” to impose any type of restrictions on domestic travel.
Indeed a number of States are actually easing restrictions at county, city or even state level. Here some of the States that have either eased or lifted the COVID-19 related restrictions for visitors and locals.
Restrictions ease in California
On January 26, Governor Gavin Newsom told Californians the good news. Effective immediately, the stay-at-home order and the 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew were lifted.
For its part, restaurants are allowed to resume outdoor dining and hair salons and libraries can reopen with some restrictions.
This new policy will benefit all of the state’s regions, including Southern California.
Restrictions ease in New York
Starting on San Valentine’s Day, (Feb. 14), New Yorkers will be allowed to enjoy indoor dining at local restaurants. (At 25% capacity).
Governor Andrew Cuomo also announced that bars and restaurants with license to sell liquor will reopen. They can operate until 10 p.m.
Restrictions lifted in Florida
Most COVID-19 related restrictions were lifted on October 22. Governor Ron DeSantis considers that the “risk of infection is outweighed by positive mental health benefits of increased social interaction.”
So far, DeSantis has blocked any national government attempts to require businesses to operate below 50% indoor capacity or any form of businesses’ shutdowns during the course of the pandemic.
Restrictions ease in Puerto Rico
Although there is still a curfew that runs from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., Governor Pedro Pierluisi has reopened beaches, marinas and pools.
Also, the Sunday lockdown has been canceled. As of yet, visitors and locals must still observe social distancing and wear face masks.
Restrictions slightly lifted in New Jersey
Restrictions in New Jersey continue to be tight but bars and restaurants continue to be open until 10 p.m.
Also High school sports could resume a few weeks ago. Thanks to these restrictions the number of cases has gotten smaller across the State with 24,808 for the seven days ending February 9 compared to 31,715 the seven days before.
The future of COVID-19 Restrictions in the U.S.
Countless times, health officials have warned that easing restrictions too soon could bring new outbreaks, but since the new administration took over the surge in cases have been steadily dropping.
It’s hard to tell at the moment if new restrictions on domestic travel will be enforced, but so far the administration is “always considering what steps are necessary to keep the American people safe.” said Psaki.